Britain's 10 greatest islands – and how to reach them by ferry

9. Orkney

Prehistoric sites are central to one’s experience of Orkney. Across the 70-plus islands (20 inhabited) 10 miles off the north coast of Scotland there are many traces of ancient settlements and worship, but the most important are clustered in the west of the main island, known as Mainland. Comprising two stone circles, a chambered tomb and the prehistoric village of Skara Brae, they have been accorded Unesco World Heritage status. After excursions devoted to prehistory, the harbour town of Stromness and the lively capital, Kirkwall, are fine places to relax (visitorkney.com).